Q. I am interested in getting a dental implant to replace a missing tooth. However, I have metal allergies. Would that be a problem?
Allergies to metals are very common. Recent reports show that 17% of women and 3% of men are allergic to nickel and 1% – 3% of the people are allergic to cobalt and chromium. These include daily items like jewelry, buttons, clothing fasteners, dental restorations, and mobile phones.
Allergic reaction can develop from a simple rash to difficulties breathing. We can become allergic to virtually anything, and at any time.
Dental implants are generally made of metal called titanium. The same metal is used for knee implants. Titanium is very biocompatible, very strong and not corrosive material. It is known for its osteophilic qualities, comes from: “osteo” – bone; “philic” – loving. It means that titanium integrates and bonds to the natural bone permanently. This is what determines the great success rate in implants.
Another good quality of the titanium is its very low allergy rate, equal to 0.6%.
How do you know if you have titanium allergy?
Some of the common symptoms of an allergy to titanium dental implants include pain, swelling/bumps in the mouth, inflammation of the gums around the implant, canker sores with burning sensation. If the symptoms are not released after the systemic intervention of antibiotics for six days, hypersensitivity could be suspected.
It’s possible to detect a titanium hypersensitivity ahead of time with a MELISA test. This a blood test that measures the immune response to titanium and is much more accurate than a traditional skin patch allergy test. If you have history of metal allergy it may be recommended to have a MELISA test before you get an implant.
Can you get dental implants if you have titanium allergy?
Great news, modern technology developed zirconia dental implants. They have been used for at least 20 years now.
Zirconia is a very strong non-metallic ceramic material that is also used for restoring dental crowns.
In conclusion, although very rare, titanium hypersensitivity is a possibility and could be overlooked since an allergic reaction could cause various symptoms and is very rarely expected.
Share with your dentist if you develop pain, eczema, swelling or burning sensation within four days after the implant placement.